Black mold behind wardrobe: urgent for landlord?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, you should notify your landlord immediately. In Dubai, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the property's structure and addressing issues like dampness and mold that arise from building defects, such as leaking pipes or inadequate waterproofing. Document the issue with clear photos and send a formal written notification, as this starts the clock on their required response time.

Given the symptoms your children are experiencing and the visible black growth, this is urgent. The combination of high humidity and organic material like dust provides an ideal environment for mold to thrive. The spores can become airborne and circulate through your AC system, potentially irritating respiratory systems. While not all black mold is the notorious Stachybotrys, any significant mold growth behind furniture warrants a professional assessment to identify the species and its source.

Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this can agitate the spores and worsen air quality. A proper inspection will determine if the cause is an internal leak, condensation, or an external envelope issue—common in our climate. For a case with health symptoms and concealed growth, a professional inspection with lab testing is strongly recommended to define the scope for remediation and provide the evidence needed to ensure your landlord addresses it correctly.